Dubai Internet City Free Zone Business Setup: Licenses, Process, Costs

Dubai Internet City Free Zone Business Setup is a strategic solution for technology companies seeking a prestigious location, advanced digital infrastructure, and access to the Middle East market. As one of the region’s leading technology hubs, Dubai Internet City Free Zone company setup offers a structured, business-friendly environment tailored to IT enterprises, startups, and digital innovators.

Why Choose Dubai Internet City Free Zone Business Setup?

Located in the heart of Dubai near key transport routes and infrastructure-rich districts, Dubai Internet City was established to support IT companies and high-growth startups. Over time, it has attracted major international brands as well as fast-scaling technology teams.

The key advantages of Dubai Internet City Free Zone company registration include:

• 100% foreign ownership
• Business-friendly tax environment
• Flexible licensing terms
• Advanced digital infrastructure
• Option for fully remote incorporation
• 0% corporate tax on qualified income
  

With government-backed stability and a strong innovation ecosystem, DIC provides an ideal launchpad for companies focused on digital transformation, software development, and cross-border IT expansion.

About Dubai Internet City Free Zone

Founded in 1999 with the support of the UAE government, Dubai Internet City Free Zone was created to accelerate the development of the ICT sector. It operates under TECOM Group and forms part of Dubai Holding, ensuring strategic stability and institutional backing.

Positioned as the largest technology cluster in the MENA region, DIC unites global corporations, innovative startups, and incubators. The zone is closely integrated into Dubai’s smart city ecosystem, emphasizing digital transformation, innovation, and international expansion.

Business Activities Permitted in Dubai Internet City Free Zone Company Setup

The free zone allows a broad spectrum of ICT and digital-related activities, including:

• Software and mobile application development
  
• Design and digital marketing services
  
• Hosting, cloud solutions, and data center management
  
• IT consulting, systems integration, and cybersecurity
  
• E-commerce, fintech, AR/VR, AI, Big Data solutions
  
• Academic and technology training centers
  

Certain specialized activities—such as data center operations, fintech platforms, or AR/VR studios—require prior approval from the DIC authority to maintain technological and environmental compliance standards.

Step-by-Step Dubai Internet City Free Zone Company Formation

The Dubai Internet City Free Zone company formation process is structured, transparent, and relatively fast. With digital systems and government support in place, administrative barriers are minimized.

Required Documents

In most cases, applicants must provide:

• Passport copies of shareholders and directors
• Passport-sized photographs
• Proof of residential address (not older than 3 months)
• CV of beneficiaries and director
• Business plan (for selected activities)
• Share capital confirmation (if required)
• Entry Visa or Entry Permit (for residency)
• Power of Attorney (if using a representative)
• Completed registration application form
• Memorandum and Articles of Association (company charter)
• Resolution on the establishment of the company (founder’s decision)
  

The standard timeline for Dubai Internet City Free Zone company registration is approximately 10–15 working days:

• Pre-approval: 3–5 days
  
• Document submission: 2–3 days
  
• License issuance and final registration: 5–7 days
  

Remote Dubai Internet City Free Zone Company Registration

One of the major advantages of Dubai Internet City Free Zone business setup is the option for fully remote incorporation.

The process begins with selecting the business activity and preparing the required documents. Submission can be completed electronically through an authorized registration agent.

A key stage is video verification of shareholders and directors via secure platforms such as Zoom or MS Teams. This step ensures compliance with KYC and AML regulations.

Once verification and payment are completed, the license is issued digitally. If a residence visa is required, the entry permit can also be processed remotely, allowing biometric procedures to be completed later in the UAE. This enables entrepreneurs to establish a fully legal company without leaving their home country.

Types of Licenses in Dubai Internet City Free Zone

The free zone provides specialized licenses tailored to technology and digital businesses:

• Software License – for developing and distributing software and applications
  
• IT Service License – for IT consulting, systems integration, technical support, and training
  
• Telecom & Network License – for infrastructure, telecommunications, and cloud services
  
• E-Commerce License – for online sales, marketplaces, and proprietary platforms
  
• Internet & Multimedia License – for digital content creation and media distribution
  

Dubai Internet City Free Zone Business License Cost

The Dubai Internet City Free Zone business license cost depends on the license type, office solution, and number of visas.

Workspace options include:

• Shared Desk – approximately AED 12,000 + AED 5,000 deposit (includes 1 visa)
  
• Exclusive Desk – approximately AED 36,000 + AED 5,000 deposit (includes 2 visas)
  

Additional costs typically include:

• Basic license – around AED 15,000
  
• Registration fee – AED 3,500
  
• Freelance license – AED 7,500
  
• Visa-related expenses – approximately AED 1,000–1,500 per visa
  

Estimated annual packages:

• Shared Desk + 1 visa: from ~AED 20,000
  
• Exclusive Desk + 2 visas: ~AED 30,000–40,000
  
• Executive Office + 4 visas: from AED 120,000 and above
  

Costs may increase depending on additional visas and e-channel registration, which provide streamlined immigration processing.

Who Should Choose Dubai Internet City Free Zone Company Setup?

Dubai Internet City Free Zone company formation is ideal for:

• Freelancers and software developers
  
• SaaS, AI, and Big Data companies
  
• Digital marketing and media agencies
  
• Technology startups and consultants
  
• International telecom and digital brands
  

However, DIC may not be suitable for:

• Trading companies dealing with physical goods (no warehousing infrastructure)
  
• Manufacturing businesses (no production facilities)
  
• Applicants from high-risk jurisdictions
  
• Companies requiring mandatory VAT registration without meeting FTA thresholds
  

While DIC offers prestige and a world-class digital ecosystem, it may be less flexible and more expensive compared to more general-purpose free zones.

Conclusion: Is Dubai Internet City Free Zone Business Setup Right for You?

Dubai Internet City Free Zone Business Setup remains one of the most attractive options in the UAE for IT companies, digital entrepreneurs, and technology-driven startups. With 100% foreign ownership, a favorable tax environment, advanced infrastructure, and remote incorporation options, it provides a powerful platform for growth.

Flexible office solutions, transparent procedures, and strong institutional support make Dubai Internet City Free Zone company registration a strategic choice for businesses planning regional expansion.

For companies operating in the technology sector and targeting the Middle East market, Dubai Internet City Free Zone company formation offers stability, prestige, and long-term scalability. Professional guidance can help select the right package, prepare documentation correctly, and reduce registration timelines—allowing founders to focus entirely on innovation and business development.